Fearless Furry Creatures

The African honey badger, also known as the ratel, has the distinction of being the Guinness Book of World Records’ most fearless animal in the world. These little devils can chase off lions and jackals in their endless quest for food. They will kill and eat absolutely anything, and they are so vicious and bold that they have no real natural enemies.

In honor of Mother’s Day this week, I’ve portrayed a mother ratel in an uncharacteristically tender moment instructing her offspring on how to follow the honey guide bird as the bird leads the badgers to a honeybee hive filled with tasty honey and grubs. The ratel claws open the beehive to reach its treat and in so doing exposes the honey for the bird to enjoy. This little bit of cooperation benefits both animals; the ratel easily locates beehives with the bird’s help and the bird can get at the otherwise protected honey.

Check out the video below to see a hungry honey badger feeding on anything in its path!